Keloid Acne Treatments Work Slowly

The Doctor Is In

January 05, 2000

Q: Is there any cure for keloid acne? What kinds of medicine are out there? I was told there aren't any. - Brandon, Newport News

A: Acne keloidalis nuchae are bumps at the nape of the neck. They occur in people whose hair curls tightly and often occur after a barber or hair stylist shaves the back of the neck. The best treatment is prevention: Keep the hair at the neckline at least a quarter-inch long. There are several treatments, all of which work very slowly. Steroid creams or injections, retnoid creams, silicone creams or pads have all been helpful in decreasing itchiness and flattening the bumps. Occasionally, when there are pus bumps, antibacterial washes or creams may help. At times, antibiotics may be needed. Large growths can be removed with surgery or with lasers. However, there is a risk that they may grow back even larger than before surgery. So for most people, medical treatment is preferred. - Linda M. Serwatka, Williamsburg dermatologist

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